LIBRARY  OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOIS 

AT  URBANA-CHAMPAIGN 

IN  MEMORY  OF 

STEWART  S.  HOWE 

JOURNALISM  CLASS  OF  1928 


STEWART  S.  HOWE  FOUNDATION 


811 

P183i 
cop. 3 


I.H.S. 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 

in  2012  with  funding  from 

University  of  Illinois  Urbana-Champaign 


http://www.archive.org/details/illinoisverseOOpalm 


ILLINOIS  VERSE 


BY 

ANNA  SHATTUCK  PALMER 


Copyright,   19  26 

ILLINI    PUBLISHING   COMPANY 
CHAMPAIGN,     ILLINOIS 


TO 
THE  MEMORY  OF 

MY  HUSBAND 

A  LOYAL  ILLINUS 


91/ 
pit* 


PREFACE 

This  collection  of  verse  relating  to  the  University  of 
Illinois  is  an  attempt  to  gather  into  poetical  form  some  of  the 
Illini  traditions;  to  preserve  old  university  landmarks,  and  to 
give  the  atmosphere  of  the  campus  of  the  present  day. 

It  is  hoped  that  this  little  book  will  have  an  appeal  not 
only  for  the  alumni  and  students  but,  also,  for  the  many 
friends  throughout  the  state  who  have  helped  make  the  Uni- 
versity of  Illinois  the  great  institution  that  it  is  today. 

Thanks  are  due  Mr.  Carl  Stephens  of  The  Alumni  News 
and  Mr.  Richard  Atwater  of  The  Chicago  Evening  Post  for 
their  kind  permission  to  reprint  some  of  these  poems.  I  wish, 
also,  to  express  my  gratitude  and  indebtedness  to  Mr.  Francis  E. 
Johnston  for  his  helpful  criticism. 

Anna  Shattuck  Palmer 


CONTENTS 


Illinois   Salute           ...... 

1 

Burrill  Avenue          ...... 

2 

The  College  Chimes          ..... 

4 

The  Auditorium  Steps       ..... 

5 

Within    The    Auditorium            .... 

7 

Once  Upon  A  Time           ..... 

9 

Passing  of  The  Bone- yard          .... 

10 

Thomas  Arkle  Clark         ..... 

12 

The  Old  Clock 

13 

The  Rock  Garden  —  Spring        .... 

14 

The  Rock  Garden  —  Summer     .... 

15 

Homecoming             ...... 

16 

And  He  Is  Ours       .           .           .           . 

17 

Senior  Hobo  Parade          ..... 

18 

Stuart  Pratt  Sherman         ..... 

20 

The    Senior    Bench            ..... 

21 

Ballade  Of  The  Maypole  Dance 

22 

The  Circus  —  Interscholastic      .... 

24 

The  Talbot  Portrait          ..... 

27 

The  Gregory  Boulder        ..... 

28 

Illinois    Field            ...... 

29 

Red  Grange    ....... 

31 

A    Tradition             ...... 

33> 

The  Snyder  Bust     ..... 

34 

Burning  Of  The  Freshmen  Caps 

35 

Triolet  —  Gold  Feathers 

37 

Triolet  —  Orange  And  Blue  Feathers 

The  Sun-Dial           ..... 

38 

The  Fountain          ..... 

39 

Zuppke  —  The   Artist  — ■  The   Coach 

40 

Illinois  Union           ..... 

41 

Woman's  League     ..... 

42 

The  Changing  Forestry     .... 

43 

University  Band       ..... 

45 

The  Y's 

47 

Mortar  Board           ..... 

48 

Ma-Wan-Da 

49 

Open  House               ..... 

50 

Sachem    Calls            ..... 

52 

Torch              ...... 

53 

Experiment   Strips             .... 

54 

At  The  Mum  Show         .... 

56 

Sonnet   To   M.    L.           . 

57 

Military   Day           ...... 

58 

Illini  Corner             ..... 

60 

The  Eyrie       ...... 

61 

The  Old  Library 

62 

President  Kinley       ...... 

64 

Illinium  —  Element  61     . 

65 

Farewell          ....... 

67 

ILLINOIS  SALUTE 

Illinois!     Illinois! 
At  your  very  sound  with  a  love  profound 
We,  Illini  true,  salute  where  honor's  due. 
Devoted  sons  and  daughters  of  the  orange  and  blue, 
We  pledge  forever  our  allegiance  firm  to  you. 

Illinois!      Illinois! 
Of  the  flowery  plains  but  little  trace  remains; 
From  the  prairie  soil  with  long,  determined  toil 
There  grew  the  campus  green,   the  spacious  college 

halls, 
Your  soaring  collonades  and  massive  stadium  walls. 

Illinois!     Illinois! 
Pride  of  wondrous  state!    Fine  men  have  made  you 

great 
Once  a  valiant  band, — now  over  all  the  land 
Illini  true  salute.     In  loyalty  we  stand 
United  in  dear  Alma  Mater's  proud  command. 


BURRILL  AVENUE 


BURRILL  AVENUE 

Flows  all  the  campus  life  down  Burrill  Avenue 
Beneath  the  mighty  arch  of  branching  elms 

The  Grand  Old  Man  had  placed  so  true, 
With  wise  attentive  care  for  tender  life 

Whose  growing  needs  he  so  well  knew. 

Brave  old  Uni  Hall,  like  some  great  sentinel  rock 
That  stems  mid-stream  the  onward  buoyant  tide, 

Stands  firm  and  calmly  meets  the  shock 

Of  years.  —  Ah,  at  the  sight  of  your  weathered 
height 

What  doors  of  memory  unlock! 

When  loudly  sound  the  chimes  to  tell  the  passing 
hour, 
The    gay-capped    boys,    co-eds    and    thoughtful 
profs, 
From  out  the  halls  and  every  tower, — 

Mosaics  bright  soon   form  on   the  broad,    grey 
path 
That  weave  and  change  as  with  magic  power. 


BURRILL  AVENUE 


In  the  twilight  of  the  early  spring  come  campus  sings, 
And  the  luring  melody  of  Varsity  Band 

Both  old  and  young  to  the  fresh  lawn  brings; 
While  strolling  couples  fill  the  avenue, 

And  along  its  green  vault  music  wings. 

In  balmy  days  of  May  the  caps  and  gowns  appear, 
Which  lend  the  walk  scholastic  dignity. 

Then  comes  to  a  close  the  college  year, 

And    that    last    long    line    moves    down    your 
shadowed  length, 

O,  Burrill  Avenue  so  dear. 


THE  COLLEGE  CHIMES 


THE  COLLEGE  CHIMES 

Across  the  campus,  how  many  times 

I've  heard  the  music  of  the  chimes! 

The  voice  of  that  old  grey  tower  that  sings 
Ever  through  my  memory  rings. 

For  football  games  it  shouts  aloud; 

In  victory  chants  its  paeans  proud 

Demurely,  it  raises  each  Sabbath  morn 
Its  hymns,  on  prairie  breezes  borne. 

The  warning  of  its  shaking  bells 

The  fleeting  passage  of  time  foretells, 

And  students  passing  from  college  halls 
Give  anxious  heed  to  its  constant  calls. 

Those  clarion  tones  that  sound  so  bold 
Each  new  class  greet,  ring  out  the  old; 
And  returning,  they  of  many  climes 
Receive  their  welcome  from  the  chimes. 


THE  AUDITORIUM  STEPS 


THE  AUDITORIUM  STEPS 

Up  and  down  the  Auditorium  steps 

What  heights,  what  depths 
Of  human  joy  and  hope  and  passing  sorrow. 
Each  fall,  so  eagerly  the  freshman  climbs 

Not  knowing  the  times 
He'll  tread  that  path  till  baccalaureate. 

On  Sundays,  at  five,  the  organ's  deep,  rich  voice 

Draws  all  by  choice 
Up  the  broad  stairs  to  vespers  musical. 
Both  town  and  gown  on  famous  Star  Course  nights, 

Mid  blazing  lights, 
On  the  steps  in  anticipation  gayly  crowd. 

The  campus  sings  and  twilight  concerts  in  spring 

Great  crowds  soon  bring. 
Then  Sachem's  gorgeous  warriors  throng  the  steps 
And  at  the  close  of  the  year  the  frats'  song  fest, 

Each  striving  its  best, 
Fills  them  high  with  white-sleeved  boys. 


THE  AUDITORIUM  STEPS 


Soon  on  your  heights  a  noble  group  will  arise 

That  time  defies, 
Wrought  by  Illinois'  son,  Lorado  Taft. 
A  fitting  place  for  Alma  Mater  to  be 

Where  all  may  see, — 
Enthroned  upon  the  Auditorium  steps. 


WITHIN    THE    AUDITORIUM 


WITHIN  THE  AUDITORIUM 

In  the  foyer  sways  the  human  mass 
Thru  the  doors  into  the  great  rotunda. 
Up  the  winding  stairs  the  people  pass, 
To  the  balcony  seats  ascending. 
East  of  the  central  doors  a  portrait  we  see, 
President  James  in  gown  and  crimson  hood. 
West,  a  beautiful  bronze  of  memory, — 
Ruth  among  the  alien  sheaves,  low  bending. 

Crescent  shaped  the  rows  of  seats  extend 
Within.     Above,  the  great  dome  sparkles  with  lights 
On  the  stage  green  folds  of  velvet  lend 
Drooping  softness  to  the  long,  harsh  lines. 
Dominating  the  space  above,  Ulysses 
Watches  Penelope's  maidens  spin.     The  title, 
"Everybody  Works  But  Father,"  his  ease 
Has  won  from  the  gay,  irreverent  students. 


WITHIN     THE    AUDITORIUM 


On  that  stage  have  spoken  men  who  led. 
Prima  donnas  have  sung  and  orchestras  played. 
Final  rites  for  our  celebrated  dead 
Here  were  performed.      Athletic  meetings  held, 
Student  carnivals  each  year  without  fail; 
Concerts  by  the  Band  and  Choral  Society. 
While  above  Ulysses  with  the  years  grows  pale, 
— Painted  by  Millet,  lost  with  the  Titanic  at  sea. 

Gathering  place  for  enlightened  college  life, 
How  many  different  groups  your  walls  enfold 
In  the  college  year.     Within  that  broad  expanse 
All-University  services  they  monthly  hold; 
Sunday  vesper  concerts  with  organ  music, 
Sweeping  arches  and  dome,  the  students  lure, — 
Beauty  seeking.      Fine  old  Auditorium, 
Temple  of  knowledge,   pleasure,   peace  and  culture. 


ONCE    UPON    A    TIME 


ONCE  UPON  A  TIME 

Once  upon  a  time,  dear  father  of  mine, 

You  opened  that  wonder-book  of  sphere  and  line 

To  us.      So  much  of  that  lore  is  gone,  alas! 

But  deeper  truths  that  last  you  taught  your  class:  — 

To  solve  the  long  hard  problems  that  life  brings 

And  striving,  reach  the  plane  of  higher  things. 

"Not  necessarily," — Those  words  drift  across 
Time's  space  to  me,  and  tho  great  the  sense  of  loss 
How  sweet  the  memory  that  brings  once  more 
Each  little  treasured  phrase!      Thus  on  death's  shore 
We  light  from  out  the  past  the  broken  spars 
And  with  their  sparks  we  see  above  the  stars. 

A  gallant  soldier  in  your  country's  need, 

The  training  to  obey  and  yet  to  lead 

Gave  to  your  mien  a  fine  integrity, 

A  dignity, — a  privilege  to  see. 

O,  blest  are  we  who've  known  in  this  world's  strife 

The  quiet  inspiration  of  your  life. 


1  0  PASSING  OF   THE  BONE-YARD 


PASSING  OF  THE  BONE-YARD 

Historic  stream! 
Mysterious  bones  in  the  distant  past  were  found 
Upon  its  banks.      Then  came  the  surmise  sound 
That  drinking  Indians,  thirstily  bending  low, 
Perished  here  by  hidden  enemy's  bow. 

Romantic  stream! 
Along  its  banks  the  early  violets  grew; 
Across  the  rippling  waters  soft  winds  blew. 
And  here  would  linger  when  the  moon  was  bright 
Amorous  couples  far  into  the  night. 

Quiet  little  stream! 
Demure  and  calm;  now  showing  scarce  a  trace 
Of  its  turbulent  youth  when  it  would  race  along  its 
Path,  and  students  then  would  bear 
Across  to  class  belated  co-eds  fair. 

Passing  stream! 
Tradition  fading  from  the  college  life, 
Tho  Skull  and  Crescent  still  conducts  its  strife 
Each  spring  across  the  stream  in  East  Side  Park 
And  occasional  frosh  are  ducked  here  for  a  lark. 


PASSING  OF   THE   BONE-YARD  1 1 

Ancient  stream! 
Your  course  on  the  campus  now  is  almost  run. 
No  more  can  you  join  in  youth's  hilarious  fun. 
For  many  strenuous  years  you  gave  your  best — 
Meander  slowly  along;  you've  earned  your  rest. 


12  THOMAS   ARKLE    CLARK 


THOMAS  ARKLE  CLARK 

Silvery  hair  and  shrewd  face,  whimsical  smile 
Crowning  a  slight  and  straightly  boyish  form, 
Kindly  eyes  forever  seeking  the  best 
Yet  seeing  much  of  selfish  human  guile ; 
Pilot  true  in  many  a  violent  storm 
Met  in  restless  youth's  unending  quest. 

Strenuous  efforts  made  to  save  the  farm 

Early  test  the  growing  boy  and  train 

Courage  for  future  tasks, — bravely  borne  alone, 

Cheerful  words  and  rarely  tactful  charm, 

Soothing  the  invalid  mother's  constant  pain, 

Thousands  of  sick  and  troubled  since  have  known. 

Teacher, — stimulating,  earnest  and  fair; 
Leader,  counselor  valued; — rapid  his  rise. 
Writer  of  The  Eight  O'clock  that's  open 
Now  for  all  the  world  its  wit  to  share. 
Steadfast  ever,  individual  and  wise; 
Dean  of  deans  and  friendly  maker  of  man. 


THE   OLD  CLOCK  13 


THE  OLD  CLOCK 

Product  of  those  early  students'  skill, 

The  venerable  clock  serenely  looks  down  still 

Upon  the  changing  classes  of  every  race 

Who  rush  by  with  a  hurried  glance  at  her  face. 

Her  noisy  rival  in  the  library  near 

May  shake  those  chimes  on  the  breeze, — She  has  no 

fear. 
The  campus  has  looked  up  for  fifty  years 
To  her, — the  monitor  of  youths  and  seers. 

First  class  memorial!     Uplifted,  high! 
The  careless  crowds  can  never  pass  you  by. 
The  class  of  seventy-eight  will  mark  the  hours 
As  long  as  Uni  Hall  upholds  her  towers. 


14  THE  ROCK  GARDEN SPRING 


THE  ROCK  GARDEN  —  SPRING 

Spring  enchanted  spot! 

At  the  end  of  a  long  gray  trail 

Across  level  land, — wearily  monotonous, 

A  sudden  dip!     Down  rough  stone  steps 

To  a  winding  path  that  cleaves 

The  lovely  scattering  color  of  tiny  iris, 

Crocuses,  the  bright  blue  of  scilla, 

And  thick  masses  of  Icelandic  blossom 

— White,  pink  and  pale  purple. 

Brave  bits  of  color  life! 

How  did  you  slip  thru  the  hard,  cold 

Grasp  of  that  black,  clutching  earth? 


THE  ROCK  GARDEN — SUMMER  15 


THE  ROCK  GARDEN  —  SUMMER 

Out  of  the  blaze  of  the  sun  into  a  flood  of  color. 

Waves  of  red,  purple  and  yellow  break 

On  either  side  in  which  your  vision  swims 

Delightedly! 

Gorgeous  pinnacles  of  bright  pink  and  pure  white 

flox 
Rise  from  banks  of  green, 
And  the  gaze  clings  lingeringly  to  their  lovely  refuge. 


Canterbury  bells  chime  your  beauty  on  the  vibrant  air 

Across  that  white  pool  of  rippling  daisies. 

Lilies,  sway  and  dip  your  sweetness 

In  the  many  hued  stream. 

You  defiant  tiger-blossoms  on  the  rocky  ledge, 

How  fiercely  you  stare  up  into  the  sun, 

Sucking  its  heat. 

The  golden  glow  of  coreopsis  sheds  its  beams 

Upon  all  the  palpitating,  merging  tones  and  shades 

While  beside  a  tiny  rill, 

Delicate  and  cool, 

Forgetmenots  spill 

Their  baby  blue. 


1 6  HOMECOMING 


HOMECOMING 

Great  fall  festival  of  the  Illini  tribe 
When  gather  loyal  sons  from  far  and  wide. 
Glorious  orange  floating  on  the  breeze 
Matches  the  mellow  foliage  of  the  trees 
While  mingling  with  it  blends  the  navy-blue 
Deepest  color  of  the  sky's  own  hue. 

Stunt  shows  bright  and  celebrations  gay 
Make  a  carnival  of  night  and  day. 
Mask  and  Bauble  stages  comedies, — fine 
For  those  who  ask  the  best  in  the  drama's  line. 
The  Senior  Hobo  Band  parades  the  place; 
Music  and  dancing  add  their  fleeting  grace. 

Stadium  supreme!      Great  scene  of  the  strife 
Huge  magnet  of  the  active  campus  life 
That  draws  within  its  mammoth  walls  the  crowd 
Chanting  "Loyalty"  both  deep  and  loud, 
Only  here  can  gather  all;  from  here  depart, 
— The  ardent  pride  of  each  homecomer's  heart. 


AND  HE  IS  OURS  17 


AND  HE  IS  OURS 

Father  of  athletics,  strong  and  quiet  and  wise 
Master  of  baseball;  there  his  greatest  skill  still  lies 
Leader  of  sports,  and  force  in  the  ten  great  powers 
'  There  is  but  one  Huff/' — And  he  is  ours. 

Once  the  east  claimed  him,  but  only  for  a  brief  space 
Back  to  the  middlewest  that  bred  him  he  turned  his 

face. 
Illinois  welcome  gave  with  gifts  and  flowers 

'There  is  but  one  Huff," — And  he  is  ours. 

Coach  and  trainer  of  coaches,  ever  true,  on  the  square 
What  attentive  care  always  for  his  boys'  welfare 
How  above  all  his  dauntless  figure  towers 

'There  is  but  one  Huff/' — And  he  is  ours. 

S|C  3j{  3)C  JjC 

Stadium  triumphant! 
Mighty  dream  come  true! 
Worthy  vision  long  ago  Huff  held  of  you. 
Soaring  shafts  of  memory, — high  above  the  game, 
"G"  unseen  there  mingles  with  each  hallowed  name, 
Symbol  of  silent  service  that  our  thought  embowers. 
''There  is  but  one  Huff," — And  he  is  ours. 


]  8  SENIOR  HOBO  PARADE 


SENIOR  HOBO  PARADE 

Shrill  and  loud  above  the  beating  of  the  drums, 
Syncopated, — jazz  music  urges  the  heterogeneous 

rabble 
Down  Burrill  Avenue  and  back  to  the  Auditorium 
Tattered  and  torn, 

Blackened  and  painted, 
On  they  come  to  make  a  ludicrous  spectacle 
For  the  Homecoming  masses. 

Dignified  seniors  have  shed  academic  pride 
With  their  customary  conventional  clothes. 
Weary  Willies  and  Dusty  Rhoades  mix 
With  strenuous  Wild  Bills  and  competing  clowns 
Jaywalkers    and   awkward   hay-seeds; — All   stirred 
into  one 
Highly  colored, 

Shifting  throng. 
Swerving  and  tumbling  about  with  savage  glee 
Or  infantile  joy,  they  play  their  various  pranks 
To  win  the  plaudits  of  the  laughing  crowds. 


SENIOR  HOBO  PARADE  19 

Final  high  carnival, 
Last  dashing  gesture 
To  end  the  careless  gaiety  of  their  college  days. 
And  enter  upon  the  dignity  of  the  senior  year. 


20  STUART  PRATT  SHERMAN 


STUART  PRATT  SHERMAN 
June,  1924 

'Another  good  man  gone  East!"      No  more  to  sec 

Him  on  our  street, — tall,  strong  and  slightly  bent, 

His  solemn  face  light  up  so  suddenly 

In  salutation, — hear  the  jest  that's  sent 

By  his  satiric  wit, — is  loss  indeed. 

Yet  flashing  memories  stay;  A  book-lined  room, 

A  paradise  for  those  who  love  to  read, 

Where   gathered    friends   who   sought   some   mental 

boon, 
A  littered  desk,  a  fireplace  deep  and  wide 
And  dominating  all,  the  master  mind, 
The  gallant,  militant  spirit  that  defied 
All  shallow  pretense,  struck  and  yet  was  kind 

Neighbor,  poet,  critic- — American; 

A  simple,  true  and  rarely  gifted  man. 


THE  SENIOR  BENCH  21 


THE  SENIOR  BENCH 

Stately  grey  bench,  what  calmness,  strength! 
Forbidding  in  aspect  just  at  first 
When  as  freshmen  we  so  often  thirst 

To  spread  ourselves  on  your  cool,  smooth  length. 

But  soon  comes  respite  from  our  alarms 
For  with  the  years  that  quickly  go 
More  courtesy  and  warmth  you  show 

Till  seniors  you  welcome  with  open  arms. 

Proudly  each  May  when  days  are  fair 
A  plaque  of  highest  honor  you  hold, 
Girls*  names  in  gleaming  letters  of  gold 

Which  Mortar  Board  entrusts  to  your  care. 

That  century  mark  proclaims  your  age 
When  great  events  have  come  to  pass 
Long  may  you  give  to  every  class 

Yourself  in  service, — true  and  sage. 


22  BALLADE  OF  THE  MAY -POLE  DANCE 


BALLADE  OF  THE  MAY-POLE  DANCE 

The  loveliest  sight  of  the  college  year, — 

The  dance  that  comes  in  the  month  of  May 
When  all  the  pretty  co-eds  appear 

Upon  the  green  in  dresses  gay. 

As  the  sun  is  casting  its  last  bright  ray 
The  ribbons  from  the  pole  they  slip, 

And  with  a  whirl  and  a  long  sash-ay 
To  Spring's  blithe  song  they  lightly  trip. 

They  twist  around  till  comes  the  fear 

The  pole  cannot  be  wrapped  that  way; — 
A  burst  of  music;  a  deafening  cheer! 

And  not  a  flutter  to  betray 

That  hands  had  touched  it  other  than  fay. 
The  bright-hued  figures  flash  and  dip 

And   back   to   their   places   with   rythmic   sway 
To  Spring's  blithe  song  they  lightly  trip. 


BALLADE  OF   THE  MAY-POLE   DANCE  23 


The  queen  enthroned  with  attendants  near, 
The  crowning  event  of  the  festive  day, 

The  Morris  dancers  with  horse  so  queer 
Prance  and  turn.  Then  shepherd-hay 

And  the  jesters  skip  and  have  their  say. 

Now  clouds  and  flowers  dance  a  bit 
And  as  their  lord,  the  Sun,  obey 

To  Spring's  blithe  song  they  lightly  trip. 

L'ENVOI 
O  Alma  Mater,  this  happy  lay 

Accept  we  pray,  if  it  seems  fit. 
Smile  on  your  children  in  their  play; 

To  Spring's  blithe  song  they  lightly  trip. 


24  THE  CIRCUS INTERSCHOLASTIC 


THE  CIRCUS— INTERSCHOLASTIC 

Throng  the  many  curious,  pleasure  loving  thousands 
To  where  the  huge  stadium  casts  its  jewels  of  light 
Upon  the  black  screen  of  night. 
From  the  high  schools  scattered  thruout  the  state 
Come  these  young  people  in  the  month  of  May 
To    compete    in    sports    and    join    the    hospitable 

Illinois  students 
In  rollicking  fun,  ending  in  the  great  circus 
Staged  for  their  benefit. 

Bursts  of  music,  cheers  and  laughter! 

Here   comes    the   parade    led    by   the    band   playing 

"Barnum  and  Bailey's  Favorite," 
In    full    regalia, — orange    pom-pons,    belts    and 

dress  cords. 
Into    the    rings   sweep    huge,    grotesque,    shambling 

shapes, 
Comical  clowns,  dashing  riders,  marvelous  acrobats; 
A  motley  fleet  of  gun-boats  and  bright-hued  motor 

cars, 
Coasting  and  careening  in  and  out. 

Bewildering  array! 


THE  CIRCUS — INTERSCHOLASTIC  25 

Now  begins  the  performance  and  the  fraternities  put 
on  their  stunts, 

Ever  with  the  idea  of  adding  to  that  silver  row  above 
the  fireplace 

Yet  another  cup.      Many  and  clever  the  take-offs  on 
college  notables. 

Swift  runners  in  the  relay  race  contest  for  favorite 
sororities. 

Thruout  it  all   the   clowns   tumble   and  play   their 
tricks, 
Firing  guns  to  attract  the  attention  of  the  crowd. 

And  without  ceasing,   the  lively  jazz  music  of  the 
band 
Beats   on —   on —   blaring   upon    the   quivering 
night  air. 

Trapeze  and  bar  experts  perform  wonderful  feats  of 
strength  and  agility 

In  the  spot  light,  above  a  long  straight  line  of  men 
in  white, 
Rises  a  great  human  pyramid,  immovable,  stu- 
pendous. 

At  the  end  comes  the  grand  climax, — always  impres- 
sive, startling: — 

A  diver,  blindfolded,  plunging  into  a  tank  of  burning 
oil; 


26  THE  CIRCUS INTERSCHOLASTIC 

A  realistic  sham  battle  or  Indian  fight  staged  by  the 
military: 
Fireworks  of  extraordinary  brilliancy  and  beauty. 

Happily,  the  crowd  filters  away  into  the  darkness 
And  on  the  field  lies  a  litter  of  broken  animals, 
Steamboats,  torn  pieces  of  colored  cloth,  and  rough 

and  ready  scenery, 
— The  scattered   debris  of  a   great   circus   at   Inter- 
scholastic. 


TALBOT   PORTRAIT  27 


TALBOT  PORTRAIT 

"The  Portrait  Of  A  Man!"     No  broadened  brim 
That  shades  the  austere  face  of  some  pilgrim 
Or  circling  ruff  with  dashing  feathers'  droop 

On  doublet  and  cloak  that  portray 

The  cavalier  carelessly  gay. 
Such  art  is  zealously  treasured  from  the  past 
We,  too,  guard  a  valued  portrait  that  will  last 
A  man  who's  calmly  seated  in  his  chair 

Of  noble,  commanding  brow, — 

One  of  those  the  wise  fates  endow. 
The  master-builder  of  dominant,  virile  strength 
Yet  genial,  willing  to  go  to  any  length 
To  help  a  friend.      In  life's  long  stress  of  fibre 

He  has  bravely  stood  the  test. 

Great  Talbot, — Illini's  best! 


THE  GREGORY  BOULDER 


THE  GREGORY  BOULDER 

Half  hidden  by  the  bushes, 

A  massive  boulder  lies 
Near  the  John  Street  entrance  to  the  campus. 
Hurrying  crowds,  unseeing,  pass  by  it  every  day. 

Thousands  enter  college 

And  at  the  end  of  four  years  leave, 
Not  knowing  that  the  huge  granite  stone 

Marks  the  last  resting  place 

Of  the  University's  first  able  leader 
Revered  by  the  old  graduates. 

"If  you  seek  his  monument 

Look  about  you" — the  epitaph. 
Could  John  Milton  Gregory  himself  but  stand  here 
and  look  about  him 

What  amazement  would  fill  his  soul ! 
Only  old  Uni  Hall  remains  intact. 
Far,  far  beyond  the  reach  of  human  sight 
Stretches  a  great  sea  of  new  buildings  and  grounds, 

Stupendous !    Inspiring ! 


ILLINOIS  FIELD  29 


ILLINOIS  FIELD 

On  Illinois  Field  the  first  great  building  stood 
And  all  the  college  life  was  centred  there 
Until  in  years  old  Uni  Hall  was  built 
And  to  the  south  flowed  fast  the  tide  of  life. 
A  college  dormitory  it  became 
Till  soon  swift  progress  swept  it  from  its  path 
And  all  the  field  was  cleared  for  college  sports. 
The  battle-ground  of  Uni  base-ball  strifes, 
Jake  Stahl  and  Lundy  gave  to  it  great  fame — 
Here  the  game  of  foot-ball  got  its  start; 
And  Stagg  himself  played  in  that  first  great  fight 
Against  the  struggling,  striving  Illini  team. 
Purdue,  the  ancient  enemy,  was  downed 
And  many  were  the  victories, — defeats. 
Red  Grange  began  here  on  his  famous  runs 
And  Huff  and  Zuppke  turned  out  fine  athletes. 
Each  spring  the  Interscholastic  contests  came 
With  circus  at  night  for  boisterous,  wild  fun. 
The  May-pole  dance  a  touch  of  beauty  gave 
When  the  field  became  a  fairy-land 
Inhabited  by  elves  and  lovely  nymphs 
Lightly  dancing  on  the  fresh  green  turf. 


30  ILLINOIS  FIELD 


Again  the  current  turned  both  south  and  west, 
Out  to  the  great  new  stadium  it  swept, 
And  carried  sports  and  Interscholastic, 
But  left  behind  baseball,  the  first  great  game, 
And  for  practice  work  the  old  field  still  was  kept. 
The  glamor  of  its  glorious  past  for  old  grads 
Must  ever  cling,— the  scene  of  all  their  sports — 
The  old  battleground, — historic  Illinois  Field. 


RED  GRANGE  3  1 


RED  GRANGE 

Greatest  half-back  in  the  world  is  Grange. 

Play  boy  of  the  middle  west, 
To  him  came  high  adventure,  romantic,  strange, 

Tho  flamboyant  fame  was  not  his  quest. 

Modest  youth, — slim,  with  auburn  hair, 
Students,  unheeding,  passed  him  by. 

In  training  under  Zuppke's  watchful  care, 
Industrious,  quiet,  earnest  and  shy. 

Marvelous  runs  on  the  foot-ball  field  soon  brought 

Varsity  recognition  and  praise; 
A  hero-worship  and  adulation  unsought 

From  flappers  for  whom  Red  was  the  craze. 

Stadium  crowds  uprose  with  ringing  cheers 

When  seventy-seven  with  the  ball 
Sped  for  the  goal  and  dissipated  fears 

That  come,  however  successful,  to  all. 


3  2  RED  GRANGE 


Like  a  mighty  tide  then  spread  the  fame 

Of  his  spectacular  career 
And  from  the  papers  came  delighted  acclaim 

Whenever  Grange  on  the  grid  would  appear. 

On  our  fields  the  seeds  of  his  success  were  sown, 
National  now  and  spread  afar, — 

And  Illinois  is  proud  to  proclaim  her  own 
Red  Grange,  the  noted  foot-ball  star. 


TRADITION  3  3 


A  TRADITION 

Just  within  the  wide  entrance  of  Lincoln  Hall 

With  white  marble  severe  and  cold, 
In  the  path  where  all  foot-steps  would  naturally  fall, 

Lies  the  Gettysburg  speech  in  bright  gold. 

Lowly  place  for  those  glowing,  fine  words  of  renown 

By  the  world  ever  justly  revered; 
But  their  dynamic  power  could  not  be  tread  down, 

As  some  people  so  greatly  had  feared. 

By   consent,   all   the   students   have   '  'hallowed   this 
ground' ' 
And  no  matter  how  hurried  or  tired 
Thru  the  years,  with  due  reverence,  they've  passed 
around 
— A  tradition  respected, — admired. 


34  THE   SNYDER   BUST 


THE  SNYDER  BUST 

The  hurrying  girls  pass  by  it  every  day, 

The  bust  that  ornaments  the  lower  hall, 

A  noble  head  thrown  back  in  strength  and  pride. 

The  gallant  air  still  holds  in  medium  cold 

That  characterized  the  man  in  glowing  life 

When  he  for  freedom  fought  in  Italy 

And  exiled  from  his  native  Polish  land, 

Made  offer  of  his  sword  in  our  great  strife. 

The  many  years  that  followed  till  the  end 

He  gave  to  Illinois;  inspired  and  taught 

His  classes  and  counselled  all  who  sought  his  help. 

The  Snyder  Fund  he  left  and  still  can  aid 

The  struggling  student  to  attain  his  goal. 

His  special  sympathy  was  for  the  girls. 

Alethenai  first  recognized  his  worth 

By  placing  his  sculptured  head  by  Taft  in  their  hall. 

And  now  the  Woman's  Building  holds  the  bust 

Where  all  the  girls  in  the  course  of  their  college  life 

May  see  and  revere  their  ever  loyal  friend. 


BURNING  OF  THE  FRESHMEN  CAPS  35 


BURNING  OF  THE  FRESHMEN  CAPS 

In  snake  dance  now  the  freshmen  go 
Bending  sinuously  to  and  fro. 

Rattle !     Boom ! 
Beat  the  drums.      "Hi  there!    Make  room!" 

"Oh  say!     We're  going  to  be  rid 
Of  the  little  old  green  lid." 

Hoop !    Hey ! 
Back  and  forth  they  push  and  sway. 

Soon  the  crowd  rushes  without  tire 
Out  where  roars  the  big  bon-fire 

Snap!    Blaze! 
But  a  greater  noise  the  boys  can  raise. 

See  the  buttons, — White  and  yellow  and  blue 
Green  and  purple  and  red-brown,  too. 

Smart!    Bright! 
"Pep  up!    We  can't  stay  here  all  night." 


3  6  BURNING  OF  THE  FRESHMEN  CAPS 

Into  the  flames  they're  flinging  them  fast. 
The  frosh  are  rid  of  their  spots  at  last. 

Hoop!  hoo-ray! 
The  little  green  caps  have  had  their  day. 


TRIOLETS  3  7 


TRIOLET  —  Gold  Feathers 

Bright  gold  feathers  that  adorn 
The  sophomore  girls'  attire. 

By  the  chosen  they  are  borne, 

Bright  gold  feathers  that  adorn. 

With  great  pride  they  are  worn 
Where  the  world  can  admire. 

Bright  gold  feathers  that  adorn 
The  sophomore  girls'  attire. 


TRIOLET  —  Orange  and  Blue  Feathers 

Dainty  orange  and  blue, 

The  feathers  they  wear, — 

Leading  girls  who  are  new; 

Dainty  orange  and  blue. 

Greatest  honor  their  due. 

For  the  care  they  will  bear; — 

Dainty  orange  and  blue 
The  feathers  they  wear. 


3  8  THE   SUN  DIAL 


THE  SUN-DIAL 

The  sun-dial  stands  amidst  its  shrubs  and  grass 
And  marks  the  time  of  day  for  all  who  pass. 
Nineteen-hundred-six,  tho  long  since  gone, 
Still  lingers  here  for  each  succeeding  class. 

"Make  the  passing  shadow  serve  thy  will/' 
Students  have  read,  and  tarried  here  until 
A  favorite  place  for  kodaks  it  became. 
Now  sun-dial  pictures  many  albums  fill. 

"Amidst  ye  flowers  I  tell  ye  howres,"  you  see. 
"Take  tent  o'  time  ere  time  be  tent/'  Ah,  me! 
Such  sage  advice  the  young  since  Omar's  time 
Have  read, — and  hastened  on  in  liberty. 


THE  FOUNTAIN  3  9 


THE  FOUNTAIN 

In  attitude  benign  the  elm  holds  out 
Absolving  arms  above  the  great  grey  stone 
That  murmurs  always  in  a  monotone. 

Not  as   water   gushed   from   the   rock   when   struck 

By  the  Prophet  Moses.      Here  a  steady  flow 

To  quench  the  thirst, — unceasing,   clear  and  slow. 

Nineteen-hundred-two,  perchance  you  thought 
Of  that  young  immortal  poet  whose  name 
Was  writ  in  water,  but  undying  his  fame. 

And  so  you  chose  your  class  memorial 
Whose  liquid  tones  forever  will  allude 
To  you  who  serving  win  our  gratitude. 


LIBRARY 
UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOIS 
**  UR8ANA-CHAMPAIGN 


40  ZUPPKE TWO  SKETCHES 


ZUPPKE  —  TWO  SKETCHES 

THE    ARTIST 

Impressionist  who  wields  a  clever  brush! 

When  comes  the  winter's  hush 

With  ardor  that  ne'er  faints 

He  mixes  his  glowing  paints 

And  on  the  canvas,  woods  and  stream  and  field 

In  a  riot  of  tumultuous  color  yield. 

THE  COACH 

Zup  the  coach 

Without  reproach, 
Each  move  seen 

With  eyes  so  keen. 
Fighting  hard, 

Forever  on  guard, 
He  moves  his  team  with  all  his  soul 
On, —  on, —  toward  the  desired  goal. 


ILLINOIS  UNION  41 


ILLINOIS  UNION 

The  heart  of  campus  activities  for  men. 
Thousands  wear  the  Indian  head, 
Both  leaders  and  the  many  led, 

And  proud  are  they  to  proclaim  by  that  token 
Illinois  Union. 

So  wide  its  field  the  departments  now  are  five 
That  try  to  serve  and  are  in  charge 
Of  functions,  various  and  large. 

The  organizations  which  together  thrive; — 
Illinois  Union. 

A  busy  hive  is  old  Illini  Hall 

With  offices  and  book-exchange 

And  lounge  where  no  one  can  feel  strange. 

Director  of  Homecoming  every  fall, 
Illinois  Union. 

Today,  its  members  spread  thruout  the  land 
To  Union  ideals  do  these  inscribe 
And  together  form  a  mighty  tribe. 

Forever  may  it  flourish  and  expand, 
Illinois  Union. 


42  THE   WOMAN'S    LEAGUE 


THE  WOMAN'S  LEAGUE 

The  Woman's  League  gathers  all  into  its  fold 
Without  regard  to  creed  or  opinion  they  hold. 

All-University  parties  for  women  it  gives 
And  strives  that  a  friendly  spirit  always  lives. 

Every  Wednesday,  from  three  to  five,  at  tea 
The  girls  can  gather  for  sociability. 

In  the  parlors  of  the  Woman's  Building  they  meet 
To  laugh  and  talk  and  different  friends  to  greet. 

The  League  has  sponsored  and  worked  for  Mother's 

Day, 
To  make  it  a  custom  both  impressive  and  gay. 

Full  half-a-dozen  times  in  the  college  year 

It  gathers  Inter-Illinae  groups  for  good  cheer. 

At  Homecoming,  too,  it  holds  out  a  helping  hand 
To  entertain  the  guests  from  every  land. 

Free  from  politics  and  petty  intrigue 

A  fine,  united  group  is  the  Woman's  League. 


THE  CHANGING  FORESTRY  43 


THE  CHANGING  FORESTRY 

"Foresty?    Forest  you  mean,  I  know/'  So  the  wise 

stranger  says  alway. 
We   alone   thus   call   a   grove   of   trees — name   that, 

unique,  survives  today. 
Trees  of  all  kinds  that  the  prairie's  black  soil  can 

grow,  planted  here,  took  root, 
Flourished,  and  stately  and  tall  became.     Birds  built 

their  nests  in  the  spreading  limbs, 
Squirrels   and   rabbits   and   small   wild   things   soon 

made  their  homes  in  the  protecting  shade. 
Lovers  came  to  stroll  down  the  winding  paths  strewn 

with  dry  leaves  and  soft  pine-needles. 
Bird    classes    roamed    thru    its    aisles    each    spring. 

Violets  first  shyly  crept  out  here. 
Children,  also,  shouted  and  ran  about;  slipped  thru 

holes  in  the  hedges  to  play, — 
Swing    on     the     wild    grape-vines    and    wigwams 

build, — happy  and  free  in  the  wood  beloved. 


44  THE  CHANGING  FORESTRY 

Years   passed   by.      All   around   houses   were   built. 

Hedges  gone,  menacing  fences  now  stood 
Guard  o'er  the  Forestry,  locked  against  all  but  the 

few  who  bore  treasured  keys. 
Progress  soon  swept  all  these  barriers  away.      Open 

lay  once  more  the  grove  of  trees. 
Paths  were  tread  south  and  west  leading  from  campus 

to  faculty  homes  beyond. 
Facing  on  Lincoln  the  hospital  now  stands  in  the 

midst  of  its  sheltering  trees, 
Serving  the  students  in  sickness  and  trouble.      The 

gift  of  their  friend  so  true, 
Senator   McKinley.      Changed   is   the   Forestry   and 

what  the  years  may  bring 
We  know  not  .     Always  a  part  of  the  campus  life 

it  must  remain.     Of  this 
We  rest  assured,  and  tho  sacrificed  some  of  the  fine 

trees,  those  spared  will 
Keep    alive    the    ancient    name    and    ever  will    this 

wooded  strip  be  called,   as  now,  the  Forestry. 


UNIVERSITY  BAND  45 


UNIVERSITY  BAND 

How    our    hearts    swell    with    glowing    great    pride 

when  we  see 
Uni  band  on  the  march  in  its  yellow  and  blue. 
First    comes    twirling    his    mace    round    with    great 

dignity 
The  imposing  drum  major  who  makes  much  ado; 
Then  the  boys  who  are  playing  our  "Loyalty" 
And  the  great  title  drum  always  goes  along,  too. 

The  block  I  and  Illini  they  form  on  the  field. 
Strains  of  "Hail  to  the  Orange"  rise  gently  and  swell 
On  the  air  as  the  leader  his  baton  doth  wield 
With  soft  waves,  as  a  wizard  of  old  wove  his  spell, 
And  standing  uncovered,  the  crowd  can  but  yield 
To  the  melody  sweet  that  we  all  know  so  well. 


46  UNIVERSITY  BAND 


When  the  band  takes  its  trip  every  hall  is  packed 

tight, 
And  the  home  concert  draws  all  to  hear  and  to  see. 
With     fine     instruments     glowing, — in     uniforms 

bright, — 
The  performers  blend  harmony  in  every  key. 
Grouped  en  masse  on   the  stage  they're  a   glorious 

sight, 
So  their  many  warm  friends  must  surely  agree. 

On  the  campus,  at  twilight  there's  music  in  spring. 
As  the  people  stroll  quiet  or  sit  on  the  ground 
And  the  children  oft  dance  with  a  wild,  merry  fling, 
A  more  pastoral  scene  nowhere  can  be  found. 
At  commencement  the  finish;  Loud  praises  e'er  ring 
For  the  great  college  band,  justly  loved  and 
renowned. 


THE   Y'S  47 


THE  Y'S 

Great  in  their  influence  are  the  Y's. 

Both  dwelling  on  the  street  called  Wright, 
Then  surely  all  must  realize 

They're  ready  for  the  hard,  good  fight. 

They  place  all  those  who  have  the  need 
To  work  and  strive  to  make  their  way, 

No  difference  what  the  race  or  creed, 
And  service  render  without  pay. 

Tho  Christian  endeavor  is  their  aim 

And  uplift  is  the  constant  goal 
The  social  life,  too,  has  its  claim 

As  being  healthful  for  the  soul. 

So  here's  to  both  the  valiant  Y's, 

And   long   may   they   live   on    the   street   called 
Wright 
For  close  and  precious  are  their  ties 

And  many  seek  their  kindly  light. 


48  MORTAR   BOARD 


MORTAR  BOARD 

We  watch  for  the  gowns  of  Mortar  Board  in  spring, 

As  they  appear  but  a  single  day, 
And  delightful  is  the  thrill  they  always  bring 

On  that  eventful  day  in  May. 

Their  names  we've  read  emblazoned  on  the  shield 

The  senior  bench  so  proudly  bears 
In  letters  of  gold  upon  a  sable  field, — 

Prominent  women  in  college  affairs. 

Activities,  distinguished  scholarship; 

Above  all  personality, — 
Those  who  resolved  will  never  lose  their  grip 

No  matter  what  the  pull  may  be. 

These  the  high  requirements  Mortar  Board 
Demands  and  holds  to  be  most  dear, 

And  precious,   indeed,   to  those  will  be  the  reward 
Who  serve  her  that  last  critical  year. 


MA-WAN-DA  49 


MA-WAN-DA 

Near  the  fountain  stands  a  great  tree. 

On  its  trunk  an  arrow-head, 
Placed  each  spring  where  all  may  see, 

Holds  the  list  of  those  who  led. 

Nervous  juniors  consult  the  screed 
Anxious  as  to  their  future  fate. 

Stop  Interscholastic  crowds  to  read 

Blazoned  names  of  the  campus  great. 

Captains  of  the  major  teams, 

Also,  Illinois  brigade; 
Heads  of  Union  and  Y  it  seems 

Greatest  honor,  too,  have  made. 

Illini  editors  are  found; 

Names  of  others, — only  a  few 
Whose  attainments  are  deemed  sound. 

Recent  Illio  figures,  too. 

Braves  are  they  now,  eager,  strong, 
Ready  to  lead  when  comes  the  call 

Campus  struggles  hard  and  long, — 

Those  Ma-Wan-Da  has  chosen  from  all. 


50  OPEN    HOUSE 


OPEN  HOUSE 

Open  House  we've  known  for  twenty  years 
And  more.      The  engineers  first  opened  up 

Their  wonders  of  whirling  wheels  and  belts  and 
gears 

And  blazing  electric  lights  and  in  spite  of  fears 
The  public  entered  to  wonder  and  admire. 

Then  physics  offered  its  mysteries  to  all; 

The  glorious  beauty  of  its  Geysler  tubes, 
The  delicate  instruments  that  rise  and  fall 
At  slightest  pressure;  and  sounds  that  oft  appal 

The  ignorant,  yet  hold  a  fascination. 

Chem  Open  House  is  not  so  fair  to  see 

With   test-tubes,    carboys   and   desks   so   grimly 
marred. 
But  in  a  cave  they  practice  alchemy 
In  secret,  and  wonder  grows  how  it  can  be 

This  marvelous  science  was  saved  for  us  today. 


OPEN    HOUSE  51 


The  Ags  and  Household  open  up  their  doors 

And  offer  hospitality  to  all 
So  thru  their  corridors  a  great  crowd  pours, 
Investigates  and  eagerly  explores; 

Sees  and  hears  and  even  tastes  delights. 

A  settled  custom  this  has  long  become 

To  let  the  students  and  the  public  know 
The  work  that  each  department  does  and  some 
Of  the  wonders  wrought.      With  all,  some  tricks  and 
fun, 
And  what  more  popular  than  Open  House! 


52  SACHEM  CALLS 


SACHEM  CALLS 

One  spring  night  of  the  college  year 
Sachem's  warriors  proud  appear. 
After  Varsity's  band  is  gone 
Still  all  linger  on  the  lawn 
Watching  braves  in  blankets  bright 
Merge  from  shadow  into  light, 
Forming  into  one  long  line 
As  the  chief  makes  mystic  sign. 

Loud  and  clear  is  called  each  name 
Lucky  sophomore  picked  for  fame! 
Proudly  he  rises  to  grasp  the  hand 
Held  out  by  each  of  that  war-like  band. 
Quickly  he  mounts,  as  those  before, 
Reaches  the  Auditorium  door; 
Passes  he  then  out  of  sight 
Eager  for  the  secret  rite. 


TORCH  5  3 


TORCH 

Bearers  of  the  torch, 
Honorable  and  high, 

Juniors,  chosen  vestals, 
Never  let  the  flame  die. 

Yellow  scarfs  betoken 
Firmest  friendship's  tie; 

At  the  ends  are  graven 
Torch  and  U.  of  I. 

Gathering  oft  together, — 
Fireside  talks  and  fun,— 

Dear  will  be  the  memory 
In  the  years  to  come. 


54  EXPERIMENT    STRIPS 


EXPERIMENT  STRIPS 
Near  the  dome  where  men  search  the  wide  heavens 

above 
Lie  the  Morrow  experiment  strips  where  they  study 

the  earth 
Beneath   us.      Closely   watched    for   the   forty-three 

years  since  their  birth 
By  the  seekers  of  truth  about  the  soil  that  they  love. 

Next  the  oldest  in  the  world  are  these  strips  that 

record 
The  results  of  exacting  research  on  rotation  of  crops, 
The  alarming,  increasing  degree  that  fertility  drops 
And  the  richness  intensive,  wise  care  will  reward. 

The  old  country,   at  Rothempstead,  holds  the  first 

place 
Where    the    study    of    crops    was    attempted    and 

knowledge  attained, 
But   from  Cyril  G.   Hopkins  at  Illinois  there  was 

gained 
Redemption  of  the  soil  for  the  human  race. 


EXPERIMENT    STRIPS  55 

Just  black  earth  we  could  tread  underfoot  with  a 

glance 
As  we  pass?      We  are  thrilled  when  we  read  of  our 

forefather's  fight, 
But  the  second  great  conquest  of  the  land  was  made 

on  this  site; 
In  these  strips  you  will  find  a  true  record  of  romance. 


56  AT    THE    MUM    SHOW 


AT  THE  MUM  SHOW 

Bewildering  flower! 

In  your  gorgeous  tatters, 

A  splendid  mendicant, 
Boldly  begging  admiration  for  your  beauty. 

Amazing  blossom! 

Sinking  sometimes  to  a  tiny 

Button  of  delicate  tint; 
Often  swelling  into  a  great  balloon  of  color 
Held  to  earth  by  its  long  green  stem. 

Sumptuous!    Regal! 

Under  the  long  stretches  of  protecting  glass 

The  evanescent  life  of  vivid  tones  and  varying  shades 

Merges,  as  some  great  crashing  chord, 

Into  an  ensemble  of  magnificent  harmony. 


SONNET  TO  M.   L.  57 


SONNET  TO  M.  L. 

A  gracious  presence  in  the  college  life, 
An  atmosphere  serene  and  softly  bright, 
Eyes  of  deep  brown  that  hold  a  higher  light; 
A  power  to  quiet  every  petty  strife. 
Hers  the  rule  of  love  and  sympathy. 
Big  sister  all  the  girls  must  trust,  admire. 
The  friend  who  helps  their  interests  without  tire, 
Both  leads  and  guides  with  rare  ability. 

She's  consecrated  to  her  chosen  task 

As  truly  as  nun  who  takes  her  sacred  vows 

Before  the  altar.     Sincerity  endows 

Her  with  a  radiant  spirit  granted  few 

A  charm  the  daily  routine  cannot  mask  . 

The  Dean  of  Women,  ideally  fine  and  true. 


58  MILITARY    DAY 


MILITARY  DAY 

Military  Day  in  the  last  full  week  of  May 

Brings  out  on  the  drill-field  all  the  great  brigade. 

Both  the  regiments  of  infantry  appear; 

Batteries  of  artillery,  troops  of  cavalry 

Follow,  and  line  up  proudly  for  the  grand  parade. 

Companies  abreast,  they  stand;  imposing  sight! 
On  their  right  flank  is  the  military  band. 
Officers  are  facing  them  across  the  field 
Sent  by  the  government  to  decide  our  military  rank 
Among  distinguished  colleges  of  the  land. 

Gayly  playing  a  grand  march,  the  band  leads  down 

the  field 
Men  swing  into  columns;  four  abreast  they  go. 
In  two  long  lines  each  of  the  companies  passes  before 
Its  judges  in  review.      The  cavalry  now  displays 
Great  skill.      And  the  artillery  moves  along  the  row. 


MILITARY    DAY  59 


Passing  down  the  ranks  of  companies  at  attention, 
Judges  look  at  equipment  and  men  with  closest  care. 
Many  hours  were  spent  before  by  anxious  cadets 
Polishing  bayonets  and  rifles,  puttees,  belts, — 
Knowing  this  severe  inspection  they  must  bear. 

Presentation  of  the  Hazleton  medal  follows. 
Best  of  the  freshman  units  wins  it;  given  for 
Over  thirty  years.      The  Uni  medal  of  gold 
Comes  next  and  bronze.      Then  back  to  the  huge 

old  armory 
March  the  men  and  disband  to  rush  forth  free  once 

more. 


60  ILLINI   CORNER    (AN   IMPRESSION) 


ILLINI  CORNER.        (An  Impression) 

From  the  vast  brick  expanse  of  old  Uni  Hall 
Scarcely  a  gleam  shines  forth  after  the  sudden  lull 
Of  five  o'clock.      But  bright  always  are  the  basement 

windows 
At  Illini  corner  where  toil  underground 

The  gnomes  of  the  college  press. 
On  their  numerous  little  black  machines 

How  feverishly  they  pound  the  keys, — 
Click  —  clack !     Click  —  clack ! ! 
Then  spring  up  and  rush  madly  to  and  fro. 

Drawn  and  anxious  are  their  faces 
As  they  endeavor  to  dig  up  gems  of  thought 

To  please  the  uncertain  public, 
On  whose  door-steps  must  be  placed  their  offering 

Early  the  following  morning. 


THE  EYRIE  61 


THE  EYRIE 

High  up  in  big  Administration  Hall 
Abide  headquarters  of  The  Alumni  News 
And  busy  presiding  genius  over  all, 
(Who  can  no  earnest,  true  old  grad  refuse) 
Carl  holds  his  genial  sway. 

Attractive  nest  from  which  to  wing  new's  flight 
Across  the  land  and  sea  and  carry  joy 
To  graduates  afar.      A  place  of  light 
Where  with  humor  and  patience  naught  can  annoy 
Carl  holds  his  genial  sway. 

Below,  a  stretch  of  the  broad  and  shaded  walk 
A  calm  glance  at  the  classes  hurrying  to  and  fro; 
His  future  prey  he  has  no  need  to  stalk. 
Time  will  deliver  them  to  him,  tho  slow. 
Carl  holds  his  genial  sway. 


62  THE   OLD   LIBRARY 


THE  OLD  LIBRARY 

Treasure  house  where  hoarded  wisdom  is  stored 

All  sorted  and  labeled  on  shelves,  row  on  row; 

And  students  who're  eager  for  knowledge  and  some 
who're  bored 
Hasten  quickly  to  partake  or  with  motions  slow 

Just  glance  at  the  books  assigned, — all  sitting  around 

The  tables  with  which  the  reading  rooms  abound. 

Behind  the  loan  desk's  curved,  confining  length, 
Where  busy  librarians  according  to  rule 

Deal  out  from  the  stacks,  a  tablet  of  great  strength 
Is  seen  to  the  founder  of  the  Library  School 

Katharine  Sharp,  and  President  James'  fine  face 

In  profile,  high  above  the  central  space. 

The  mural  decorations  still  bright  today 

Are  scenes  from  college  life  by  Newton  Wells 

Whose  dust  lies  now  in  Egypt  far  away. 
Overhead  we  hear  the  chimes'  deep  bells, 

And  see  beyond  the  drawers  of  reference  cards 

The  Lincoln  yolk,  a  framed  glass  case  safe-guards. 


THE   OLD   LIBRARY  63 


A  pleasant  place  for  students  to  gather  and  read 
In  scholastic  atmosphere  forever  serene, 

Tho  many  a  whispered  date  is  made,  indeed, 
Behind  the  cover  of  book  or  magazine. 

To  the  great  new  library  soon  we  shall  depart 

But  memories  of  the  old  dwell  in  many  a  heart. 


64  PRESIDENT  KINLEY 


PRESIDENT  KINLEY 

Responsibility  is  his  to  guide 

The  training  ship  thru  many  dangers  rife 

In  the  whirling  currents  of  the  resistless  tide 

That  pours  out  toward  the  unknown  sea  of  life. 

And  wise  must  be  his  choice  of  those  who  aid 

In  carrying  on  the  task  of  teaching  youth 

The  wisdom  that  experience  has  made 

Their  own  while  yet  they  ever  seek  fresh  truth. 

A  chieftan  whose  piercing  eyes  sweep  o'er  the  heights 
To  which  he  must  attain  and  lead  his  band. 
And  keenly  he  watches  for  the  signal  lights 
With    which    progress    onward    beckons    those    in 

command. 
In  single  phrase  his  character  to  sum, — 
"Difficulties  were  made  to  be  overcome." 


ILLINIUM — ELEMENT    61  65 


ILLINIUM  —  ELEMENT  61 

Illinium,  the  first  element  to  be 

Discovered  in  America! 
That  it  existed,  the  wise  would  all  agree 

But  vainly  sought  to  capture  it, — 
Most  elusive  of  elements, — sixty-one. 

In  our  fine  rare  earths  laboratory 
At  Illinois  the  long,  hard  battle  was  won 

And  recorded  by  the  faithful  X-ray. 

For  full  six  years  it  was  the  department  joke 

Whenever  they  thought  the  end  in  sight 
Some  delicate  piece  of  apparatus  broke 

But  still  the  persistent  search  went  on, 
A   '  'trouble  book"   was  kept  that  showed  the  pace 

At  which  they  climbed  the  upward  path, 
The  times  the  crystal  slipped  from  out  its  place, 

The  tube  broke  when  success  was  near. 


66  ILLINIUM — ELEMENT    61 

Faint  lines  upon  a  photographic  plate, 

A  tiny  vial  of  pinkish  yellow 
Are  closely  guarded,  for  these  proofs  relate 

The  story  to  the  outer  world. 
To  Professor  Hopkins  great  the  honor  due 

And  to  his  able  associates 
Yntema  and  Harris.      The  name  rings  true, 

— The  metal  of  the  Illini. 


FAREWELL  67 


FAREWELL 

To  Illinois  we  do  not  say  adieu, 
Tho  the  Good  God  with  her  forever  be! 
We  hope  to  meet  again  both  happy  and  free, 
But  auf  wiedetsehen  does  not  meet  our  view. 
We  love  our  fine  old  English  word  farewell 
With  its  hearty  wish  to  prosper  and  succeed, 
Its  blessing  on  the  future  word  and  deed, 
— Its  ringing  sound  like  some  intoning  bell. 

The  end  has  come  and  we  into  the  world 
Pass  out, — bearing  treasures  rich  and  rare, 
Cherishing  memories  surpassing  fair. 
Prosperity  and  greatness  all  foretell 
Dear  Alma  Mater.      Beneath  her  flag  unfurled 
We  the  Illini  say, — "Fare-the-well." 


